Any person over the age of 18 who is a resident of Kansas can come into the State Library to check out, or use, the resources the library has available.
In order to check out materials, patrons do need to apply for a card and present a valid Kansas ID, a process that takes just a few minutes. The cards are good for three years, which are then able to be renewed. Materials can be checked out for three weeks, but can be renewed up to two additional times if there are no holds for that particular item.
The State Library has an interesting collection of books within our general reference section. There are quite a few biographies on presidents, and their papers, in this collection. Also, the State Library provides the option for inter-library loan (ILL), which is handy if patrons who come and look for something we might not have in the collection. If that is the case, the library can ILL another title for the patron. The option for Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is also available for non-Topeka residents through the patron's local library.
Another area of interest is the Floating Playaways collection located to the right of the circulation desk. The
Playaways portion of the library’s website offers more detail about them, as well as links to lists of all the available Playaways throughout the library system in Kansas. Just contact your local library if you would like to listen to a particular title on the list.
Of course, the State Library also has federal documents, and state documents, for patrons to peruse and check out. The library also has a collection of legislative documents that are available to be read in the library, since not all circulate.
Not wanting to check out print books, or travel to Topeka to view the collection? Check out the library’s
Digital Book eLending webpage, which are available for all Kansas residents across the state, and requires a Kansas Library Card. Information for the card is available at the
First Time User page.
Talking Books are also available for reading help for anyone with a visual impairment, physical impairment or reading disability.
State Library of Kansas Reference
Reference: 785-296-2149
Legislative Hotline: 1-800-432-3919
E-mail:
infodesk@ks.gov